Hilltop Hideaway - Umatilla Nf (Or)
4.156 reviewsHILLTOP HIDEAWAY, PO BOX 158, UKIAH, OR 97880, USA
Hilltop Hideaway - Umatilla Nf (Or)
$55.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$55 per night for Cabin Electric throughout both Peak (May 01 - September 30) and Non-Peak (October 01 - December 31, January 01 - April 30) seasons.
About this campground
Perched high in the Blue Mountains, Hilltop Hideaway beckons adventurers to step back in time to the 1930s. This historic cabin, once home to workers of the legendary Fremont Powerhouse complex, now serves as your gateway to untamed wilderness and gold rush history. Whether you're tracking elk through ancient forests, discovering abandoned mining claims, or simply savoring the profound silence of mountain solitude, this remote retreat promises an authentic escape from the modern world.
Hilltop Hideaway primarily serves as a cabin rental site but also offers tent camping areas nearby.
Historical SignificanceYour cabin walls hold stories of the American West's golden age. Built as part of the ingenious Fremont Powerhouse complex, this dwelling once sheltered the dedicated workers who kept electricity flowing to ambitious gold mining operations below. As the powerhouse's turbines hummed with mountain water, these cabins stood watch over critical infrastructure that fueled dreams of fortune. Today, you can explore the nearby ghost town of Granite, where weathered buildings whisper tales of prospectors who once filled these mountains with hope and determination.
Weather and SeasonsAt 5,000 feet, Hilltop Hideaway experiences the full drama of mountain seasons. From October through May, winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland where accessing your cabin becomes part of the adventure—strap on snowshoes, clip into cross-country skis, or fire up the snowmobile for an exhilarating journey through snow-laden forests. Summer brings gentle mountain breezes and comfortable temperatures perfect for exploration, while autumn paints the surrounding wilderness in brilliant golds and crimsons.
ElevationRising 5,000 feet above sea level, Hilltop Hideaway offers the crisp, clean air and dramatic vistas that only true mountain elevation provides. Here, winter arrives early and lingers late, blanketing the landscape in snow and ice that transforms familiar trails into enchanting pathways. The thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and promises of adventure, while the elevation ensures cooler summer days and star-filled nights that seem close enough to touch.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your hillside perch, the Blue Mountains unfold in layers of emerald and shadow, where towering Ponderosa pines and stately Douglas firs create a living cathedral. Your private grassy lawn gives way to endless forest vistas that shift with each passing hour. This wild sanctuary harbors an impressive cast of characters—black bears lumber through berry patches, elusive cougars patrol ancient game trails, and wolf packs sing haunting melodies under moonlight. Lucky visitors might spot magnificent elk grazing at dawn or catch a glimpse of the rare black-backed woodpecker and mysterious Boreal owl that call these forests home.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of Umatilla National Forest, Hilltop Hideaway claims its place among the ancient peaks and valleys of the Blue Mountains. This rugged geological wonderland tells a story millions of years in the making, where volcanic forces and patient erosion sculpted a landscape of dramatic ridges and hidden valleys. Your hillside haven at 5,000 feet offers front-row seats to this natural amphitheater, surrounded by pristine stands of Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir that have weathered centuries of mountain storms and witnessed the rise and fall of gold rush dreams.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details for persons with disabilities are not explicitly mentioned in the documentation.
Sites SizeThe cabin sleeps up to 4 people and features a queen-over-queen bunk bed. Additional space for tent camping is available nearby.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers some privacy as it is the farthest uphill from the Fremont Powerhouse, but proximity to the three other cabins may lead to noise depending on the other visitors.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring extra items such as chairs for outdoor seating, sharp knives, and potable water due to occasional water safety concerns (as noted by user reviews).
Best CampsitesHilltop Hideaway provides a single cabin, which is the farthest uphill from Fremont Powerhouse.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy: 4 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutHilltop Hideaway is located uphill from three other cabins near Fremont Powerhouse, with grassy lawns separating them.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 01 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov platform.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served available for two days only: June 21 - June 22, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before the reservation date. $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (less than 14 days for cabins) forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes incur a $10 fee if changing to entirely new dates.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Hilltop Hideaway offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. Guests can engage in hiking, biking, wildlife watching, and photography in the surrounding Umatilla National Forest. Seasonal activities like huckleberry and mushroom picking are also popular. Olive Lake nearby offers additional activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. Winter recreation such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling is possible but requires appropriate equipment.
Hiking
Numerous trails lead from the cabin into the North Fork John Day Wilderness, offering opportunities for both casual and serious hikers. The trails pass through scenic areas rich in wildlife and natural beauty.Fishing
Fishing is available at the nearby Olive Lake, which is known for its serene setting. Specific types of fish or fishing regulations are not detailed but visitors can enjoy a peaceful fishing experience.Swimming
Olive Lake offers swimming opportunities in its cool, clear waters. Safety measures or lifeguards are not mentioned; visitors should exercise caution.Biking
Guests can explore forest roads on mountain bikes, enjoying the rugged terrain and scenic views of the forest.Boating
Olive Lake nearby supports boating activities. The type of boats allowed or availability of docking facilities is not described.Wildlife viewing
The Umatilla National Forest is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, cougars, wolves, elk, and deer. Birdwatchers can spot black-backed woodpeckers, Boreal owls, and American kestrels.Winter Activities
Guests can enjoy snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing during the winter months, though access to the cabin requires specialized equipment.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding may be possible at Olive Lake, though specifics are not detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- "Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species." Seasonal fire restrictions may apply.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsRemote area with no cell coverage. Seasonal snow drifts can block access roads. Wildlife such as black bears and cougars requires caution.
Active alertsSeasonal fire restrictions may apply. "For current fire restrictions click here or call ranger district at 541-427-3231."
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Unclear; Granite (6 miles) provides groceries and fuel but emergency services details are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 - September 30.
Trash and recyclingThe site operates on a 'pack in, pack out' policy, and visitors are expected to pack out their garbage. No additional recycling or waste management facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNearby Olive Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaints"Plan on cleaning when you arrive," as per multiple user reviews. Issues noted include carpenter ants, birds in walls, broken fixtures, and cleanliness concerns.
Host"Host Mitch was very helpful," according to user reviews. Provides historical insights and assistance.
Campground Map
HILLTOP HIDEAWAY, PO BOX 158, UKIAH, OR 97880, USA
Driving directionsFrom Pendleton, Oregon: Travel south on Highway 395 for 50 miles to the Ukiah exit. Turn left on Highway 244 to Ukiah. Turn right (south) just before the city park; this road becomes Forest Service Road (FSR) 52 at the Forest boundary. Travel 50 miles to the small town of Granite. From Granite go west on County Road 24 for approximately 6 miles. The main road veers left along the creek bed. At this junction turn right (uphill) on FSR 10 and follow the signs to the Fremont Powerhouse, towards Fremont Congo Gulch Cabin. Do not use between October and June without confirming this route is open with the Ranger District. From Baker City, Oregon: Travel west on Highway 7 and continue 20 miles to the junction with FSR 73. Proceed north through Sumpter and another 17 miles to the small town of Granite. From Granite go west on County Road 24 for approximately 6 miles. The main road veers left along the creek bed. At this junction turn right (uphill) on FSR 10 and follow the signs to the Fremont Powerhouse, towards Fremont Congo Gulch Cabin. This route is plowed in the winter and provides the only winter access.
FS Road 52 is not maintained in the winter. Between October and May, access is only available from Baker City. "Do not attempt to cross Forest Road 52 during those months without calling the District to confirm it is passable." Roads in the area may have snow drifts, and this remote location has no cell phone coverage.Nearby places
Granite (6 miles)
Nearby supplies
Granite, Oregon (6 miles away), provides groceries and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.2
6 reviews
Hilltop Hideaway - Umatilla Nf (Or) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's beautiful and remote location but note concerns about maintenance and cleanliness. Guests appreciated the historical significance and natural beauty but raised issues such as carpenter ants, bird nests in walls, and the need for cleaning upon arrival.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests praised the cabin's scenic and secluded location, historical charm, and the availability of modern amenities like electricity and a full kitchen. Several reviews mentioned the helpfulness of...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include cleanliness upon arrival, carpenter ants, bird infestations in the cabin walls, and broken or missing amenities such as stove knobs and a leaking hot water faucet. Some reviews...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing extra cleaning supplies, outdoor chairs, a sharp knife for meal preparation, and comfortable bedding. Visitors should also plan for potential noise from nearby cabins and...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter stays require preparation for snow and cold weather, while summer stays offer full access to amenities like running water. Visitors noted that weekends can be noisy due to other guests.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"What a beautiful way to get away in comfort," praised one visitor, noting the cabin's charm and value. Another guest warned, "Plan on cleaning when you arrive," due to maintenance issues. A third...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no specific complaints or praises were noted about pet-related experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025